As commissioner for the past five years, Santa Cruz is known for the 'most aggressive drivers’ license modernization in DPS history', the opening of the Mississippi Forensics Laboratory, as well as a merit promotion system.

“The time has come for me to depart from public service,” Santa Cruz said. “It has been my honor and privilege to serve the dedicated employees of the Department of Public Safety, the Mississippi Highway Patrol and the citizens of this great state.”

Retirement for the D'Iberville native will be effective Jan. 31, 2017.

(Photo by Evan Agostini/Invision/AP, File). FILE - In this May 22, 2018 file photo, actor Morgan Freeman attends the 2018 PEN Literary Gala in New York. Freeman is apologizing to anyone who may have felt “uncomfortable or disrespected” by his behavior....

Actor Morgan Freeman has apologized for making anyone feel uneasy, in the wake of a CNN report in which multiple women accused him of sexual harassment or inappropriate behavior.More >>

Actor Morgan Freeman has apologized for making anyone feel uneasy, in the wake of a CNN report in which multiple women accused him of sexual harassment or inappropriate behavior.More >>